PEOPLE in Somerset were unable to report emergencies by calling 999 for a time last night (July 12).
Phone lines were overwhelmed for a time at around 6pm as flash flooding incidents occurred in London, leading to a surge in calls to the emergency services.
A spokesperson for the Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said: "Due to flooding incidents across London, the 999 service is currently experiencing large call volumes.
"If you need to report a fire and rescue emergency in Devon and Somerset, you can temporarily call 03333990014. Please only dial this number in an emergency."
Then, at around 7pm, the service updated people on the situation and said the 999 lines were available once again.
"Call volumes to the 999 service have reduced from the earlier sudden rise in demand," the spokesperson said.
"Thank you for your patience."
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